While there are some things you shouldn’t try to DIY, knowing how to solve common issues can save every homeowner a lot of money and frustration. Here are some simple solutions to common plumbing problems that every homeowner should know how to resolve.
A Leaky Faucet
A small leak on your faucet can mean a big water bill over the course of the year—not to mention the sound of incessant dripping is enough to get on anyone’s nerves. To fix this costly and obnoxious issue, you will simply need some basic DIY skills and tools. First, turn off the water supply under the sink and turn on the faucet to allow the remaining water in the line to empty into the sink. Remove your faucet handle per manufacturer instructions. Check for an internal washer that has become stiff, torn, worn or dislodged. Replace if needed. Alternatively, you may need to replace your cartridge. After replacing, reassemble your facet and turn on the water.
A Sewage Smell in Your Bathroom
Bathrooms can get smelly, but if your bathroom constantly smells of sewage, you may have a plumbing problem. To discover the problem, you may have to put on your detective hat. To start, examine your toilet’s wax ring. This ring that seals your toilet’s drain may need to be replaced. The telltale sign? If your toilet bowl wobbles in place, your wax ring may need to be replaced. Another smell-harboring culprit? Your toilet’s caulking. Bacteria from stale water can settle in the space between your toilet base, causing the excess odor. Recaulking can ensure that the protective coating around your toilet’s base is fresh and ready to do its job.
A Running Toilet
If your toilet is running, there’s no need to call a plumber. Most often, toilet running issues are caused by problems with the toilet’s flapper. Check the chain that secures your toilet’s flapper, because if it is too long and hangs off the flapper, it can be pulled underneath the flapper when your toilet is flushed. This will prevent proper sealing and cause your toilet to continuously run. If the chain doesn’t seem to be the culprit, your flapper itself is likely to blame. An old and deteriorating flapper cannot form a tight seal and allows water to trickle through, simply replace the flapper to stop the issue. If these quick fixes don’t seem to be the problem, you may need to troubleshoot further.
While there’s certainly a time and place to phone the pros, a little DIY know-how can go a long way to solving some unpleasant household plumbing problems.
